YouthConnekt Africa is a continental initiative aimed at accelerating the implementation of Agenda 2063 by connecting African youth for socio-economic transformation. It has been adopted and implemented by 33 African Member States.
YouthConnekt Africa operates as a platform to address critical development challenges by fostering ecosystem-building, knowledge-sharing, and continental collaboration. Over the years, it has evolved into one of Africa’s largest conveners of youth-focused policy discussions and business initiatives.
African Member States.
A seat at the big table with policy makers.
Get inspired by trailblazers who shape our world.
Connekt with like-minded change makers.
Discuss. Debate. Determine , your future.
working to gain insights into the root causes, regional disparities, and socio-economic implications.
supporting a global partnership approach where skills development is designed to meet the diverse needs and aspirations of African youth and adapted to current and future market demands.
among policymakers, educators, employers, and youth advocates in Africa to foster a multi-stakeholder approach, synergies and coherence to tackling youth unemployment.
The continent at large has started to demonstrate pockets of evidence that it is possible to skill youth and connect them to employment opportunities that are locally based and/or globally sourced. We seek to inspire strategic investments and collaborations in market-driven/informed youth-skilling programs and accelerate turnaround times.
A seat at the big table with policy makers.
Get inspired by trailblazers who
shape our world.
Connekt with like-minded change makers.
Discuss. Debate. Determine...your future.
The role of digital skills and technology in empowering African youth, fostering innovation, and creating new job opportunities in sectors such as ICT, e-commerce, and digital entrepreneurship.
Exploring solutions to bridging the gap between education and employment in Africa through education reforms, lifelong learning, partnerships with the private sector, and innovative vocational training to equip youth with skills in key sectors
A recent report by UNCTAD revealed that Africa’s share of the global creative economy is around 1.5%, generating 2 million jobs – 5% of global cultural and creative industries jobs.
Agriculture remains a key sector in Africa but is dominated by smallholder subsistence farming, with an aging farmer population. How can technology, incentives, and subsidies transform agriculture into an appealing opportunity for youth?
African markets are driven by MSMEs, employing 300 million in the informal sector. To formalize, targeted investments are needed. We aim to support youth-led startups, enabling environments, and access to finance and markets
Africa, with over 500 million youth aged 18-35, demands growth in health services. YouthConnekt Africa champions technology and youth-led initiatives to ensure empowering choices for mental, sexual, and reproductive health across the continent.
EVENT Programme
Venue : Lemigo Hotel
Format : Workshop
Partner : UNICEF,Nia Delta
Dates : 6th -7th November 2024
Format : Networking and entertainment (DJ)
Venue : Auditorium – Kigali Convention Center (KCC)
Format : Exclusive Plenary
Opening Video – (5min)
Welcome Remarks – Co-chairs of YouthConnekt Africa (5mins)
Format : Panel discussion – (45 Min)
Theme : “Taking Africa Forward – Jobs for Youth”
This high-level intergenerational dialogue, under the theme “Taking Africa Forward,” reflects the spirit of involving the younger generation in shaping the Africa we want by bringing together Heads of State, senior leaders, and young people to co-design solutions that harness the potential of youth. The session aligns with the summit’s theme, “Jobs for Youth through Innovative Skilling,” by exploring how innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive policies can unlock job opportunities for Africa’s youth, ultimately propelling the continent forward.
Marketplace : Buy from Youth, Buy from Africa
Venue : Auditorium
Format : Plenary - Panel Discussions
Partner : Imbuto Foundation & MoYA
The creative industry has emerged as an essential sector in the global economy with great
potential for economic growth and job creation. In recent years, Africa’s creative industry has
been demonstrating its capacity to drive innovation and contribute to the continent's
development. However, to fully realize its potential, a collaborative effort is needed to foster a
conducive environment for creative expression and entrepreneurship.
Hon. Kudakwashe Mupamhanga ,Deputy Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation, Republic of Zimbabwe
Venue : MH1
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : UNDP
The panel will share key insights and findings, identify
common themes, and highlight unexpected
connections to spark a discussion on systems-oriented
Youth programming. The aim is to engage partners
and collaborators in advancing innovative, systems &
portfolio approaches to youth development.
Keynote Speech:
Hon. Aminata Traore Bagayoko, Ministre de l'Entrepreneuriat National, de l' Emploi et de la Formation Professionnelle, Republique du Mali
Venue : MH2
Format : Workshop
Partner : UNICEF | ALX | CMU
This lab will focus on identifying the skills, qualifications,
and career trajectories necessary for success in today’s
job market. The Career Pathways Lab will empower
youth to take an active role in shaping their career
futures while leveraging expert knowledge to create
valuable resources. This hands-on approach will foster
collaboration, enhance understanding of industry needs
and build a sense of ownership among young
participants regarding their career development.
Keynote Speech
Hon. Carlos Do Canto Monteiro , Minister of Youth and Sports, Cabo Vere
Venue : MH3
Time : 14:00 - 15:30
Format : TED Talk & Presentations
Partner : MASS Design
MASS’s Learning and Entrepreneurship Initiative is
dedicated to leveraging architecture and design
thinking to equip young people in Africa with the skills
and confidence to be empowered
decision-makers at every scale of society.
Keynote Speech
Hon. Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, ,Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, Kingdom of Morocco
Venue : AD12
Time : 14:00 - 15:30
Format : Panel Discussion
Partners : UNDP Senegal /UNDP WACA
La session servira d’échanger sur le leadership Civique et transformationnel des jeunes pour leur participation effective au développement politique et socio-économique des pays Africains. Il s’inscrit dans le cadre de la thématique générale de cette 7ème édition du YouthConnekt dont le thème est : “Innovations dans le Développement des Compétences pour l’Emploi des Jeunes”
Keynote Speech
Hon. ABAKAR Djermah Aumi , Ministre de la jeunesse et des sports, Republic of Chad
Venue : MH3
Time : 15:30 - 17:00
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : Digital Africa
In 2024, the employability of young people in tech jobs is relevant. Over 230 million jobs in Sub-Saharan Africa will require digital skills in Africa, and there are less than 1 million profiles identified.
Yet despite this growing demand, youth unemployment remains high, often due to a lack of appropriate skills. Discussing solutions to bridge this gap between training and tech jobs is essential to foster inclusive and sustainable growth.
Venue : AD12
Time : 15:00 - 16:00
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : UNDP Senegal
L’objectif de ce panel est d’échanger sur le rôle des Jeunes pour la Stabilité des Pays Africains en s’appuyant sur la Résolution 2250 (2015) de l’Agenda Jeunesse, Paix et Sécurité.
Keynote Speech:
Hon. Adbulah Marson Moustapha , Minister of Youth and Sports, Republic of Madagascar
Venue : AD11
Format : AUC Dedicated Space
Partner : African Union Commission
Knowing the African Union, Entry Points and Opportunities.
1 Million Next Level Initiative
The African Union commission plans to achieve its initial goal of providing opportunities for 300 million young Africans by 2030 in the 4Es. The Egumi Hub will engage both young people and encourage all stakeholders including government, civil society, youth and private & public sector partners to not only be part of this bold vision but also support the implementation of the initiative.
Venue : AD10
Format : Masterclass
Youth-Led Session : ICOYACA
The session will provide practical insights into how youth entrepreneurs can navigate the financial landscape, with a focus on the tools and resources available under the AfCFTA Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade.
Keynote Speech :
Hon. Inayati SIDI , Minister of Youth, Employment, Sports, Arts and Culture, The Union of the Comoros
Venue : MH4
Theme : Access to Finance
Format : Roundtable
Partner : CRS & AFR
Venue : BK Arena
Format : Networking Event & Entertainment Open to all (limited slots)
Partner : The Chillest
Venue : Serena Hotel
Format : Banquet – Limited for Delegation and Partner Representation
Partner: GoR & YCA Hub
Venue : Norrsken
Format : Entrepreneurs’ Networking Event – Open to all (limited slots
Partner: Norrsken &
ICT Chamber
Venue : Century Cinema
Format : Film Screening – Open to all (limited seats)
Partner: Mashariki Film Festival
Format : Networking and entertainment (DJ)
Venue : MH4
Format : Policy Round Table
Partner : Gold Youth | YCA Hub
Venue : Auditorium
Format : Exclusive Plenary - TED Talk Style
Partner : Mastercard Foundation | YCA Hub
The African Union's Theme of the Year 2024, "Educate (and Skill) an African fit for
the 21st Century," recognizes the urgent need to prepare African youth for the
challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world. With increasing
technological advancements, competitive global markets, and climate challenges,
Africa's youth must be equipped with the skills necessary to thrive. YouthConnekt
Africa aligns with this theme by focusing on "Jobs for Youth through Innovative
Skilling," aiming to create solutions that will address unemployment through
forward-thinking educational and skilling initiatives.
Venue : MH1
Format : Panel Discussions
Partner : YouthConnekt Zambia Chapter
The session will showcase Zambia's successful skills development initiatives for youth and facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration among African countries towards strengthening capacity and skills building of youth for jobs of the present and future.
Keynote Speech:
Hon. Elvis Chishala Nkandu, Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Republic of Zambia
Venue : AD 12
Format : by invitation only
Partner : UNDP
Over 50% of the global population lacks access to quality healthcare services. Africa, which bears
24% of the global disease burden, has only 3% of the world's health workforce. However, the
continent is home to a young population with over 60% under the age of 25. Despite facing
challenges such as communicable and non-communicable diseases and a shortage of healthcare
professionals, Africa's youthful demographic presents an opportunity to leverage innovation and
technology to address these health challenges.
Venue : MH2
Format : Panel Discussions
Partner : YouthConnekt Malawi Chapter
The Zantchito Entrepreneurship and Access to Finance is part of the broader Zantchito Skills for Jobs program. This initiative is a joint effort between the European Union and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Overall, the initiative targets to support 3,800 entrepreneurs, of these to create 7,600 jobs.
Venue : MH3
Format : Panel discussion
Partner : UN Women & Smart Africa
Offering a platform where young women innovators across the continent can showcase their work, connect with investors, and collaborate with other key stakeholders in the tech and startup ecosystems. The goal is to foster sustainable pathways for women-led innovations to thrive and contribute to Africa’s socio-economic development.
Keynote Speech:
Hon. Nthati Moorosi , Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation, Kingdom of Lesotho
Venue : MH4
Format : Policy Round Table
Partner : MoYA & YCA Hub
To enable African youth to participate economically, we must recognise that entrepreneurship and trade are key gateways for youth access to employment. Further, AFCFTA is set to accelerate intra-African trade and boost Africa’s global trade position by strengthening Africa’s common voice and policy space in global trade negotiations.
Keynote Speech:
Hon. Mounouna Foutsou , Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education, Republic of Cameroon
Venue : MH4
Format : Pitching
Time : 12:00 - 14:00
Partner : YCA Hub
As part of the summit program the deal room will offer a unique setting for young enterprises to pitch their businesses to investors operating across the continent.
Venue : AD11
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : African Union Commission
The African Union commission plans to achieve its initial goal of providing opportunities for 300 million young Africans by 2030 in the 4Es. The Egumi Hub will engage both young people and encourage all stakeholders including government, civil society, youth and private & public sector partners to not only be part of this bold vision but also support the implementation of the initiative.
Venue : AD10
Format : Partner and Youth Consultation
Partners : CRS
Venue : Auditorium
Format : Panel Discussions
Partner : African Union Commission
Venue : Auditorium
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : FAO
This plenary session aims to showcase key approaches and pathways that have been effective in preparing youth for the labour market through effective skilling. The conversation will distinguish between approaches that impart relevant skills for wage employment, self-employment and entrepreneurship. It will also apply a gender lens to address the gender-specific barriers that limit young women’s participation in agrifood systems.
Keynote Speech:
Hon. Pitso Lesaoana , Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development, Kingdom of Lesotho
Venue : MH1
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : YouthConnekt Gambia Chapter
The session aims to address the pressing issue of skilling and smooth education-to-employment transitions for Africa’s youth. The session will also focus on practical strategies to align educational outcomes with market needs, highlight successful models, and promote collaboration between stakeholders in education, government, and the private sector to ensure youth are not just employable but thrive in the labor market.
Keynote Speech:
Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie , Minister of Youth and Sports, the Gambia
Venue : MH2
Format : Panel Discussion
Youth Led Session : Alliance of Young Entrepreneurs
and Leaders of Senegal (AJELS)
The session tackle challenges and foster discussions regarding empowerment of young entrepreneurs in the Sahel by facilitating access to trade and finance with special consideration of innovative approaches for young entrepreneurs in underbanked areas. The session will discuss also cross-border collaborations and entrepreneurial networks to leverage shared resources and knowledge.
Keynote Speech:
Hon. Aminata Traore Bagayoko , Ministre de l'Entrepreneuriat National, de l' Emploi et de la Formation Professionnelle, Republique du Mali
Venue : MH3
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : UNV
The #54FacesofAfrica campaign reached nearly 9 million people across all 54 African countries and collected over 1,000 stories from African youth. These stories are compiled in a magazine showcasing the most compelling narratives, and a compact with the African Union encouraging Member States to support youth employability and empowerment in Africa. This session aims to spotlight the African youth’s voices and perspectives by addressing the question “What does it mean to be African?”
Keynote Speech :
H.E. Mrs Hazar Abdelrasoul Alajab Alamin Ministry of Youth and Sports, Republic of Sudan
Venue : AD12
Format : YCA Hub
Partner : UNV
As part of the summit program the deal room will offer a unique setting for young enterprises to pitch their businesses to investors operating across the continent.
Venue : AD11
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : African Union Commission
The African Union commission plans to achieve its initial goal of providing opportunities for 300 million young Africans by 2030 in the 4Es. The Egumi Hub will engage both young people and encourage all stakeholders including government, civil society, youth and private & public sector partners to not only be part of this bold vision but also support the implementation of the initiative.
Venue : AD10
Format : TED Talk
Youth Led Session : AIESEC, JCI Rwanda
In today’s rapidly evolving job market, the transition from education to employment requires more than just technical expertise. Young job seekers must also possess. Additionally, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technological advancements calls for a holistic approach to workforce readiness, which includes mastering soft skills like emotional intelligence, communication, and professional etiquette.
Venue : Auditorium
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : UNDP
This plenary session aims to highlight the role of youth in rural areas in achieving Africa’s Sustainable development transformation. It will facilitate discussion on how youth in rural areas can serve as a driving force to identify innovative solutions to local problems. It will engage young entrepreneurs, youth volunteers, policy experts, community leaders, and youth-led organizations to exchange experiences, skills, inspiring stories, and innovative programmes contributing to scale-up the SDGs. It will create and harness partnerships, provide policy recommendations to educate, empower, and support youth-led initiatives that positively impact Africa’s SDG mandate.
Keynote Speech:
Hon. Onesmus Kipchumba Murkomen , Minister for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sport, Republic of Kenya
Venue : MH4
Theme : Digital and Tech Innovations
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : MINICT, Dalberg, Smart Africa
Venue : KCC Auditorium
Format : Entertainment – Open to all
Partner : Gen-Z Commedy
Format : Networking and entertainment
Venue : Auditorium
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : Unicef
There is a need to explore pathways for upskilling, ensuring access to relevant and accredited opportunities that align with future career trajectories and the labour market. Integrating systems for scale and sustainability, creating safe and inclusive environments for peer providers, and leveraging technology (U-report/Yunitok and Yoma) and innovative financing are essential steps towards investing in Africa's youth. Without radical transformation in engagement, learning, and skills development, Africa's youth risk being left behind in the global labor market.
Venue : MH1
Format : Panel Discussion
Partner : YouthConnekt Burkina Faso
L’entrepreneuriat demeure donc une source d’espoir pour l’épanouissement de la jeunesse africaine. L’écosystème de l’entrepreneuriat au Burkina Faso est dynamique et assez diversifié. Les défis dans le domaine restent encore importants à relever. Ainsi, la délégation du Burkina Faso au 7ème sommet youthconnekt africa se propose d’animer une session de discussion sur le thème : « Accroître le potentiel entrepreneurial des jeunes pour un développement endogène de l’Afrique : relever le défi de la compétitivité et de l’accès au financement »
Keynote Speech
Hon. Anûuyirtole Roland SOMDA , Ministrè des Sports, de la Jeunesse et de l'Emploi, République du Burkina Faso
Venue : MH2
Format : Pitching
Partner : YouthConnekt Siera Leone
Innovation in agriculture, particularly in Africa, is rapidly transforming the sector'slandscape, driven by a surge of youth-led initiatives. These young innovators are not just adopting existing technologies but are also creating new solutions tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities in African agriculture.
Keynote Speech
Hon. Patrick Michaelson Gibrilla , Deputy Minister for Youth Affairs, Republic of Sierra Leone
Venue : MH3
Format : Panel discussions
Youth Led Session : MINICT,RISA, EU
Venue : MH4
Format : Roundtable
Youth Led Session : Peza Hub, Jefa
Keynote Speech
Hon. Dr. Albino Bol Dhieu ,Ministry of Culture , Youth and Sports, Republic of South Sudan
Venue : AD12
Format : Panel discussions
Youth Led Session : Afrika Youth Business Council & Policy Action Initiative
Venue : AD11
Format : Masterclasses, Workshops, Presentations
Partner : African Union Commission
Venue : AD10
Format : Pitching & Speed Dating
Partner : FAO
Venue : AD9
Format : Masterclass
Partner : Umurava
Venue : Auditorium
Format : Exclusive Plenary
Partner : GoR
This session will bring together policymakers and young people to discuss some of the policy and implementation gaps and challenges young people currently face, especially with regard to mental health and adolescent pregnancy. The session will consider a joint way forward that keeps young people at the center of the response as well as reinforces commitments by policymakers to listen to the voices of youth and consider actions towards a holistic approach to youth health and well-being.
Venue : Auditorium
Format : Pitching and Awarding
MCs: Ms : Alice Higiro & Chaste Niwe
Venue : Auditorium
Format : Official Closing and Hanga Pitchfest Awarding Ceremony
Partner : GoR
MC: Ms : Alice Higiro & Chaste Niwe
Recap of the Summit MCs (5min)
Official Communiqué (3mins)
Format : Ministerial Meeting, by invitation only
Venue : Milles Collines
